Mountain boots test - comparisons. Com 2024

An important piece of equipment in the mountains: mountain boots tested

Mountain boots are essential for hiking and climbing in the mountains. These are to be clearly distinguished from hiking boots. The shaft of mountain boots extends over the ankle to protect it from injuries, and the rubber profile sole is one of the important properties of high-quality mountain boots. There are numerous manufacturers and purchase criteria, which we present in more detail below, including the mountain boot test winner.

In our mountain boot comparison we show a compilation of high-quality models and explain what you should definitely pay attention to when buying.

Top product: mountain boots at Amazon

What is the difference between mountaineering boots and trekking boots?

Compared to trekking shoes, mountain shoes have a significantly more robust upper material. With a few exceptions, they can also be equipped with crampons. There are also some crampon-compatible trekking shoes on the market, but their area of ​​use is generally limited to multi-day hut tours in connection with demanding hikes. Mountain boots, on the other hand, are also suitable for use on the last few meters of the highest mountains.

Mountain boots are usually provided with a very high shaft and a GTX membrane in the upper material. That means they are completely waterproof and yet breathable. Feet stay pleasantly dry even during very strenuous activities. In conjunction with a warming lining, the GTX membrane also provides effective protection against the cold.

There are other differences in the sole, as mountain boot test reports show. They usually have a clear notch for the crampon, a much stronger profile and are made of very hard and durable rubber. All these properties are definitely present in the bestselling mountaineering boot.

Mountain boots from CMP

Other important features when looking to buy mountain boots

Mountain boots should give the foot a secure hold and protect the ankle. This only works if the shaft extends over the ankle and has a solid structure. There are generally three different shaft heights:

- high: This is a type of mountain boot with a high shaft.

- mid: This variant is called a half boot; the shaft is medium high.

- low: These shoes have no shaft, they are called low shoes.

Basically, the higher the shaft, the better the hold the mountain boot. When comparing mountain boots, you will usually only find models with a high shaft. The sole of the mountain boots should have an abrasion-resistant and non-slip rubber profile. The firmer or harder the sole, the more pleasant hiking and climbing is, as rubble and stones are less noticeable under your feet. The models in our mountain boot recommendation usually have a rubber sole, some of which are even self-cleaning. Mountain boots should have as few seams as possible. Seams can cause pressure points, allow water to penetrate, and it is usually the areas that are the first to break.

Who needs mountaineering boots that are suitable for crampons?

Crampons are mainly needed for tours over glaciers and ice. If you want to hike and climb in alpine areas, you should put on crampon-compatible mountain boots when buying.

How much can mountain boots cost?

The mountain boot price comparison shows that the acquisition costs vary greatly. Inexpensive models are available in stores from around 55 euros, but caution is advised here. As a rule, these are multifunctional shoes that are suitable for hiking, mountain hiking and climbing, but are not necessarily designed for alpine areas. Really good mountain boots are priced between 150 and 220 euros or even more. You can assume that the better the mountaineering boots are designed for alpine climbing tours, the more expensive they are. What are the main manufacturers and brands? One of the most renowned manufacturers who guarantee high quality mountain boots

hanwag

Lowa

Meindl

Asolo

Jack Wolfskin

Merell

Most of the mountain boots of these brands are in the higher-priced range, but have a correspondingly good processing. The fit and fit are right, and they all impress with their high level of water resistance.

Mountaineering boots bestseller on Amazon:

Where can you buy your mountaineering boots?

It makes perfect sense to buy mountain boots from your local specialist dealer. Here you can get advice from the team and try on the shoes in peace. But the advantages of buying online are also compelling.

You have a 14-day right of withdrawal from the purchase contract without having to give reasons. Even the best mountain boots are often cheaper in the online shop than in local specialist shops. And when it comes to exchanges and complaints, online retailers are often very accommodating. Among the best known and most popular online retailers are

GUGGEN Mountain

mammoth online

Mountain boots at Stiftung Warentest in comparison

In August 2004 the Stiftung Warentest published a test report for trekking and hiking shoes. In this context, a Meindl brand mountain boot was also put to the test in order to provide a benchmark. The model was made of Gore-Tex and had very good material properties.

Unfortunately, Stiftung Warentest has not yet published a test report in which only mountain boots were compared.

Conclusion on mountain boots

If you are beyond trekking tours and hikes on easy inclines and want to venture into alpine areas, high-quality mountain boots are the best choice. They are designed for demanding hiking and climbing tours and offer optimal comfort even with a higher weight. They protect against injuries to the ankle and ankle, are easy to wear and suitable for all weather conditions.

When buying mountain boots, a clear distinction must be made between hiking boots and trekking shoes, because different requirements apply in demanding areas. What is needed here are robust and breathable materials, an abrasion-resistant and non-slip rubber sole, high wearing comfort and of course safe protection. Professionally made and durable mountain boots are generally in the higher price segment. Pay attention to careful processing with few seams, which can lead to premature wear, damage and painful pressure points on the foot. Would you like to go very high in the mountains? Then the device for crampons is an absolute must.